1. You do not want to play the Swans if they sneak into the finals

It is still going to be an uphill battle for Sydney to reach the finals, a 0-6 start will do that to you. However, there is no doubt they are a genuine finals threat, and if they do make it, watch out.

The Swans on the weekend got over the line despite Buddy Franklin performing poorly. What added even more importance to the victory was that it occurred at the MCG, which hasn't always been a happy hunting ground for Sydney.

They appear to be the nightmare match-up of the finals, and the game on the weekend proved home ground advantage might not save you against the Swans. Send out your prayers to whoever finishes fifth or sixth this year.

2. North Melbourne are not as far along as we thought

The Roos headed into the bye after a poor loss to Richmond. Many fans were thinking they would come out firing against St Kilda and continue to show that impressive promise. However, they offered up a poor, error riddled display against the Saints.

It seems to be a case of a couple of step-forwards then one backwards for North Melbourne, something which will no doubt frustrate their fans. There were talks of them pushing towards a final spot, but that seems a long way off now.

There is no doubt the Roos are better than what many expected in 2017, however, after their performance against the Saints it would be safe to say they are not as far along as their earlier form suggested.

3. The Blues were right to hold onto Bryce Gibbs in the off-season

Bryce Gibbs wanted to leave in the off-season, however, Carlton were having none of it and stood firm in regards to trades for their star. At the moment that decision is paying dividends as Gibbs is having a brilliant season.

On the weekend he recorded an incredible 43 touches, 10 tackles, eights marks and two goals. He was instrumental in Carlton's win on the road against the Suns and has played a big role in the Blues' current purple patch.

Many may have thought that Carlton should have let Gibbs go and got something in return, particularly given his desire to leave the club. However, at the moment they look to have made the right decision.

4. The bye rounds are horrible for fans

Let's be honest, six games a week just doesn't seem like enough. Bye rounds make this part of the year feel very disjointed and the season seems to lose some of it's momentum.

The players like/want the bye round, however, a case could very easily be made for not having one. Many other sports around the world play a massive schedule with very few weeks. Yes the AFL is a very physical sport, however, they do get close to a week between each game. The NBA regular season lasts for 82 games with anything greater than a three day break between games being very rare.

It will likely never happen, but perhaps it's time to do away with the bye round and just play through.

5.  The NEAFL needs work

For this one we move our attention to the NEAFL. On the weekend there were four games and the average margin was 83 points. The disparity between the sides is becoming a joke and clearly more needs to be done.

If you are expecting football to grow in the areas that the NEAFL covers, a good reserves competition is necessary. However, at the moment there seems to be little reason for the fans to turn up.

Brisbane's 150 point victory this week comes off the back of the Giants' 171-point loss to Sydney the week before. It's embarrassing and something needs to change.